After Shanghai and Hengdian, the next stop on my trip to China was Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province – famously known as “Paradise on Earth”. Now, my personal idea of paradise usually involves beaches and palm trees, but Hangzhou offers a different kind of calm. It’s one of the few places in China where you can go from a busy city street to a quiet viewpoint in minutes. Here, you get the balance of stunning scenery, rich culture, incredible food, and easy day trips – all without the stress of a massive city.
Whether you’re wandering historic streets, sipping tea in a centuries-old plantation, or enjoying a palace-style dinner, Hangzhou offers experiences that make it truly worth visiting. Hangzhou is a city where nature and scenery take center stage, having inspired poets, painters, and writers for centuries, and thus endowing the city with a timeless appeal. Beyond its landscapes, Hangzhou is rich in culture and history – from ancient temples and pagodas to its world-famous silk industry, which has shaped the city’s craftsmanship for over a thousand years. The city’s tea culture is equally iconic, with traditions that allow visitors to watch leaves being hand-picked, enjoy fresh tea tasting, and experience a centuries-old ritual that connects locals and travelers.
In this blog post, I’m breaking down exactly how to experience Hangzhou, including key sights and the areas that are truly worth your time and how best to plan your trip.
A Quick History About Hangzhou, China
But first, it would be good to learn a little about the history of this city. Hangzhou, China’s history goes back over 2,000 years, but its golden age began when it became the capital of the Southern Song Dynasty in the 12th century. At that time, Hangzhou was one of the largest and most prosperous cities in the world, known for trade, culture, and refined life. Marco Polo even described it as the finest and noblest city in the world and “the city of heaven” after seeing the beautiful West Lake, the grand palaces, the wealth generated through trade, and the city’s rich cultural scene.
The city’s wealth and influence came from its location at the southern end of the Grand Canal, which connected Hangzhou to northern China and made it a major hub for commerce, silk production, and agriculture. It also set the standard for urban living in China, where the city is built around lifestyle, not just political governance. Silk became one of Hangzhou’s most important exports, earning it a reputation for luxury craftsmanship that continues today. If you want some good silk, this is the place to get it (there are silk stores everywhere)! West Lake was also carefully landscaped during this period, and it was designed to reflect harmony between nature and human design, a concept that has influenced Chinese garden design across the country.
And unlike many Chinese cities that rebuilt aggressively, Hangzhou preserved much of its cultural identity while modernizing. It later became a tech and innovation hub, yet still protects tea villages, historic streets, and cultural traditions. That balance between past and present is a big reason Hangzhou feels different from other major cities.
Hangzhou’s Tea Villages
Hangzhou is the birthplace of Dragon Well (Longjing) tea, and visiting a plantation is a must. The name actually comes from the Dragon Well (Longjing Spring) located in the village, and the entire area is centered around this, not that the tea fields are physically laid out in the shape of a dragon. It is a protected region, and the mountain’s microclimate is crucial to the tea’s quality. The West Lake area has milder temperatures and lots of rain and the kind of soil that creates a perfect terroir to cultivate this tea.
Longjing tea plantations are located in the hills and valleys near West Lake, and have been produced for over 1,000 years. It requires pan-firing the green tea (key step) as it stops oxidation while giving the leaves their flat shape and a nutty, slightly sweet profile. The tea is hand-picked and hand-fired, which is why it may be a little more expensive when you get it from an authentic place. The highest-quality Longjing is traditionally grown in areas around West Lake, and during the Qing Dynasty, it was considered an imperial tribute tea, meaning it was reserved for the court. It is still seen as one of China’s most prestigious teas and is often called China’s most famous green tea.
Hangzhou’s Silk Heritage
Hangzhou has been China’s silk capital for over 1,000 years as well, and its history is deeply tied to the city’s identity. Silk production here isn’t just about fabric – it’s a cultural legacy that shaped trade, fashion, and craftsmanship across the country. During the Tang and Song dynasties, Hangzhou silk was highly prized and exported along the Silk Road. By the Yuan and Ming dynasties, Hangzhou’s silk workshops had refined techniques in weaving, embroidery, and dyeing, creating fabrics so luxurious that they became a symbol of wealth and prestige across East Asia.
Today, you can explore this heritage at the National Silk Museum, one of the largest silk museums in China. Even if you don’t visit the museum, silk stores are everywhere throughout the city. Silk remains a living tradition in Hangzhou, from workshops teaching hand-loom weaving to contemporary fashion brands that honor traditional patterns.
The Best Time To Visit Hangzhou, China
Hangzhou has 4 distinct seasons and each offers a different experience. Your best time depends on what you want from your trip – scenic views, tea harvests, festivals, or mild weather and less crowds.
Spring (March to May) – The weather is cool and comfortable, but with occasional rain. However, the city does come alive with blooming flowers and lush tea terraces. Crowds are moderate, though early April can get busy. You’ll want to pack a light jacket and an umbrella.
Summer (June to August) – It will be hot and humid during this time with frequent afternoon showers, but the daylight hours are long. Crowds do peak in the summer though, especially around July and August.
Fall (September to November) – The temperature will be mild and clear with crisp air and colorful foliage. It is considered the best overall time to visit and crowds are moderate except during Golden Week (first week of October which you should avoid if possible). You’ll want to pack layers and a light jacket for the evening. Mid-October was when I visited and it was the perfect temperature and crowds weren’t too bad either. But it did drizzle a little bit so bring a rainjacket or umbrella just in case.
Winter (December to February) – It will feel cool to quite cold during this time, with damp, quiet streets and lower costs. Outdoor activities can be less pleasant, but you’ll be able to avoid crowds. You’ll need a warm coat, layers, gloves, and waterproof shoes.
For more trips to really prepare for your trip to Hangzhou, be sure to read The Ultimate China Travel Guide – Essential Tips article.
How Much Time Do You Need In Hangzhou, China?
Hangzhou is a compact city, so you can see the highlights in 2 full days. I personally stayed for 2 nights, 3 days. But technically, you can even take a day trip from Shanghai to see all the major highlights if you really want. This private guided tour to Hangzhou from Shanghai is highly rated and can save you time, money, and the hassle of staying overnight in another city, especially if your focus is on exploring bigger cities that actually require more time.
If I’m being honest, I would just take the day tour if you’re tight on time, as it’s enough to see the major sights and get a real feel for the city. That said, if you want to slow down and enjoy more local experiences, spending a night or two in Hangzhou lets you experience it more fully. Personally, even a full day or a one-night stay would have been enough, depending on your travel style.
How To Get To Hangzhou And How To Get Around The City
Getting to Hangzhou is easy, whether you’re coming from another city in China or flying in internationally. If you’re coming from nearby destinations, the fastest and most convenient option is to take the high-speed train. I took the high-speed train from Hengdian to Hangzhou (and Shanghai is only a 30-minute train ride from Hangzhou), and it was smooth, comfortable, and much faster than driving.
For international travelers, Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport has direct flights from major cities across Asia and a few global destinations. From the airport, it’s easy to get into the city by taxi, rideshare, or the airport shuttle bus. If you arrive by train, both the Hangzhou East Railway Station and the main city station have straightforward metro connections.
Once you’re in the city, the best way to get around is a mix of walking, cycling, and metro, depending on where you’re headed. I walked most of the time and only took a Didi on the way back to the hotel closer to the evening.
Where To Stay In Hangzhou, China
There are 2 main areas in Hangzhou that would be good for a first-time visitor or those who want convenience:
- West Lake Area – Hangzhou is known for the West Lake, so where better to stay than in this area? You get stunning views of the lakes, pagodas, and classical gardens right outside your hotel steps, and it is a walkable distance to the main attractions, along with plenty of restaurants and cafés.
- Wulin Square – This is the city’s central commercial area with shopping, restaurants, and easy transit connections. It is best for those who love to shop and the vibrant nightlife. It is less scenic than staying in the West Lake area, and has a little more traffic and noise.
Where We Stayed
We stayed at the Holiday Inn Express Hangzhou West Lake East by IHG as the location is central and convenient. Just a short walk or metro ride from West Lake, the historic streets, and the city’s top sights. It’s also close to both the railway and metro stations, which makes day trips, arriving from other cities, or just getting around in general super easy. This area is quiet and not overrun by tourists, so you get the feel of the city without the crowds, while still being perfectly positioned for exploring.
The rooms were spacious, clean, and comfortable, with all the basics you need for a short or multi-day stay. Breakfast is included, and they even have a self-serve popcorn cart in the lobby, which was a surprisingly fun and tasty bonus. They also opened a Cotti Coffee on the property so it makes it very convenient for a little caffeine before you start your day.
Must-Try Foods And Drinks In Hangzhou, China
Hangzhou isn’t just about beautiful scenery – it’s also a food lover’s paradise. From traditional local dishes to specialty snacks and tea tastings, there’s a lot to explore to satisfy your taste buds and try something more traditional.
Signature Dishes To Try
Dongpo Pork – Slow-braised pork belly in a rich, slightly sweet sauce. It’s a Hangzhou classic and can be found in most traditional restaurants. My dad said the best he’s tried was in Beijing, as it completely melts in your mouth, but I actually quite liked the ones I tried in Hangzhou!
West Lake Vinegar Fish – Fresh fish cooked with a tangy-sweet vinegar sauce. It’s a must-try if you want a taste of local flavors. For me, it reminded me of the sweet and sour pork dish with its sauce.
Beggar’s Chicken – Traditionally baked underground in clay, the story goes that a beggar found a way to cook chicken by wrapping it in lotus leaves and clay and roasting it over a fire, which produced meat that was incredibly tender and aromatic. Over time, this method was adapted in restaurants. It’s an iconic Hangzhou dish, but a heads-up: quality can vary between restaurants, so it’s worth doing a little research and going to places with strong local reviews or a reputation for doing classic Hangzhou cuisine well. My parents tried this in the past when they visited Hangzhou, and it didn’t quite measure up to their expectations when it comes to Chinese chicken, so I skipped it this time.
Longjing Shrimp – Fresh river shrimp stir-fried with Dragon Well (Longjing) tea, a dish that’s truly unique to the region.
Specialty Snacks And Street Food
Lotus Seed Paste Mooncakes – Found in bakeries and markets, perfect for a sweet snack or a souvenir.
Fried Rice Cakes – Chewy, savory, sometimes slightly sweet and a common street snack that’s loved by locals.
Peach Cake Biscuits – I happened upon the Southern Song Dynasty Huji bakery while walking the Qinghefang Old Street randomly, and was intrigued when I saw a long line of locals waiting for the freshly-baked cookies, and I knew it had to be good. Spoiler alert: it was amazing and I still dream of them – so delicious, fresh, and crispy – and only $3 for an entire bag of 8 cookies.
Local Drinks
Hupao Spring Water (Tiger Spring Water) – Famous for centuries, it’s traditionally considered the best water for brewing Longjing tea. The mineral balance makes the tea taste softer and sweeter and you’ll even see locals lining up with bottles, especially in the mornings.
Hangzhou Huangjiu (Yellow Rice Wine) – Hangzhou produces and consumes huangjiu as part of its local food culture, and it’s often used in cooking, but you’ll also see it served warm in traditional restaurants with classic Hangzhou dishes. The flavor is mellow, slightly sweet, and low in alcohol.
Best Things To Do In Hangzhou, China
Hangzhou is one of China’s most visitable cities and this section covers the top experiences, cultural highlights, and day trips so you can make the most of your time in the city.
Wander Xixi Wetland Park
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
Why You Should Visit – This is one of China’s few urban wetland reserves, and it has been an important part of the area’s ecosystem for centuries – providing flood control, supporting local agriculture, and sustaining wildlife. You can also find historic villages and temples in the area to discover, or even take a boat ride through the canals.
Explore West Lake
Time Spent – 3 hours to half a day
Why You Should Visit – West Lake is the crown jewel of Hangzhou and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its scenic beauty, historic landmarks, and cultural influence. The lake has been a central feature of Hangzhou since at least the Tang Dynasty. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, West Lake played a role in the city’s development, serving as a hub for trade and imperial excursions. The lake itself is divided into several areas, each with its own character. Peaceful gardens and pavilions like those in Huagang Park showcase classical Chinese landscaping and the many types of flowers, while temples and pagodas like Leifeng Pagoda and Baochu Pagoda offer insight into Hangzhou’s spiritual and architectural history. You can explore the lake at your own pace by walking or cycling along the lakeside paths. For a different perspective, a boat ride across the lake offers great views of the surrounding mountains and historic islands, capturing the very scenes that inspired countless works of art over the centuries. Along the main paths, you’ll also find a few cafés and small restaurants, perfect for a break while soaking in the history and scenery.
Visit Lingyin Temple
Time Spent – 1.5 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – Also known as the Temple of the Soul’s Retreat, it is one of China’s largest and most historically significant temples. Founded in 328 AD during the Eastern Jin Dynasty, it was a major center of religious activity and cultural influence for nearly 1,700 years. This temple’s location is tucked away into a valley that’s surrounded by forested hills and dramatic rock formations. One of the most remarkable features is its ancient grottoes and Buddhist rock carvings, including more than 300 stone carvings that date back to the Tang and Song dynasties.
Tour Dragon Well (Longjing) Tea Village Or Other Tea Villages
There are 3 places to choose from to experience this famous tea culture and get a tasting or some souvenirs to bring home:
Dragon Well (Longjing) Village
Time Spent – 1.5 to 3 hours (if it’s a full immersive visit)
This is the historic core of Longjing tea production near West Lake, and it’s where the most famous and highest-grade Longjing comes from. While you can book a guided tour, I recommend getting a taxi or Didi directly to the village instead, since there’s no entrance fee and you can just walk around at your own pace.
To reach the terraced tea gardens, you’ll walk through a residential street where many locals live. The tea fields stretch across the valley and are easy to explore on foot. Along the way, you may be invited to local homes for tea tastings (all the locals there pick and process their own tea), which is exactly what happened to us. An older local woman followed us around, insisted on taking us to the best photo spots, and was very enthusiastic about the tea and the area. She seemed very proud of where she lived and shared information about the village before inviting us to her home to try some tea, and showed us the types of tea she can sell to us. Don’t worry – it’s really professional, and they’ll weigh and package it right in front of you. There is no obligation to purchase, but my dad loves tea, so he did make a purchase – but do confirm the final price clearly, as it can change at the last minute (I guess this is where the “scam” may come in. Locals generally only speak Mandarin here, and if you don’t look Chinese or speak the language, you’re less likely to get approached at all.
The plantation itself is expansive and impressive, especially if it’s your first time visiting a tea-growing area like mine. The landscape alone makes it worth the visit – even Chairman Mao planted a tree here, which is still standing today, and notable visitors, including Tilda Swinton, have stopped by. It’s a place that feels deeply tied to Hangzhou’s tea history rather than just a tourist stop.
Meijiawu Tea Village
Time Spent – 2 to 3 hours
This might be the one that locals prefer more and over 500 households live here. It’s still very much a working tea village with over 160 tea houses and even tea art shows. The tea fields at Meijiawu are just as scenic, but the atmosphere is a little calmer, less polished, and easier for first-time visitors. Even notable government bodies from around the world have visited this plantation. Plus, they just recently opened 3 historical and cultural spots where you can really get a feel of the history and the culture.
Hupao Valley (Tiger Spring Area)
Time Spent – 1 to 1.5 hours
Hupao is less about tea fields and more about the tea culture. The focus here is the Hupao Spring Water, and the area is quieter, greener, and more park-like, with temples and walking paths nearby. It’s not exactly where you go to buy tea, but where you go to understand why Hangzhou tea culture matters. It’s best for travelers who is interested in the ritual behind tea, not just the product.
Learn About China’s Silk Heritage At The National Silk Museum
Time Spent – 2 to 4 hours
Why You Should Visit – With Hangzhou being China’s silk capital, The National Silk Museum is the perfect place to explore this legacy. Here, you can see the entire process from silkworm cultivation to weaving, dyeing, and embroidery, along with historical garments and famous silk patterns.
Stroll Qinghefang Ancient Street
Time Spent – 2 to 4 hours (or more if you want to fully explore shops, snacks, and side alleys)
Why You Should Visit – Qinghefang Old Street is Hangzhou’s historic commercial street, tracing back to the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was a busy hub for merchants, and it’s still lined with traditional architecture, tiled roofs, and narrow cobblestone lanes, giving visitors a taste of old Hangzhou. Walking here feels like stepping back in time while still enjoying modern amenities and local culture. The street is famous for local snacks, artisanal shops, and traditional crafts. You can try specialties like Zhejiang-style pastries, preserved meats, and herbal treats, or shop for silk and tea products, calligraphy, copper and silver, and other handicrafts. Some of the shops have been run by the same families for generations, offering a glimpse into centuries-old trades.
Hu Qing Yu Tang Chinese Medicine Museum
Time Spent – 1.5 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). After Western medicine was introduced to China, people began to call the traditional medicines in China as TCM for differentiation. Founded in 1874 during the Qing Dynasty, it was originally a pharmacy and clinic, and then it opened as a museum in 1991 and is now one of China’s most complete TCM museums. You’ll find antique medical instruments, herbal medicine displays, and ancient prescription books, giving context on how medicine was practiced and shaped over the centuries. Walking through the museum, you’ll see the restored pharmacy, pill-making workshops, and demonstration areas which show the traditional preparation of herbs and remedies. The museum is housed in a classic Chinese courtyard complex, complete with intricate woodwork, tiled roofs, and gardens, making it as visually interesting as it is educational. Towards the end of the museum, you’ll come across a large area where TCM doctors are consulting with patients and the pharmacists are creating customized blends of prescriptions for them. The consultation is free – I just had to give my passport and they registered me in the system. Of course, they will prescribe you something if there is actually an issue, but you are not obligated to purchase anything, especially if you’re traveling like I am. TCM usually requires different herbs that you need to boil and take continuously, so this was definitely not an option for me. The reason I got a consultation was because I wanted second opinions (nothing major) and to just do a health check. Upon feeling my pulse and looking at my tongue, the doctor told me immediately what was “wrong” and he was on point. The only caveat in doing this consultation is that they only speak Mandarin.
Get A Massage
Time Spent – 1 hour
Why You Should Visit – Hangzhou is a pretty calm city as you can tell, so what better way to unwind than getting a massage? It’s a great way to relax after exploring temples, tea villages, and West Lake. There are plenty of massage shops and they are well-trained and professional, offering services at prices cheaper than in the other cities I visited on this China trip. During my visit, I went for a back and foot massage and found the experience much needed after all the tens of thousands of steps I’ve done in the past week. The staff are highly skilled in traditional techniques, from reflexology to acupressure, so you can feel confident your time is well spent. The shop I visited had a quiet little dog named Milk (sounds much cuter in Chinese), who wandered around the store and even came to say hi. It totally added to the experience!
Attend An Imperial Feast With Live Entertainment At Gong Yan
Time Spent – 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – Gong Yan offers a truly unique dining and culture experience that brings China’s imperial feast traditions to life. Guests can dress up as nobility and have professional photos taken before the show, then enjoy a multi-course banquet inspired by historic imperial recipes. Each dish is carefully arranged to reflect ceremonial dining order, balance, and prosperity, and the menu often includes local Zhejiang influences in the Hangzhou location. The experience is further elevated by live music, performances, and storytelling that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a palace hall. Of the locations in Beijing, Shanghai, and Hangzhou, my dad suggested Hangzhou might be the best, thanks to its round layout, which makes the performance feel more intimate and immersive. Personally, this was the best meal of my entire China trip – both for the food and the theatrical presentation. This is an Instagram reel I shared on the experience and all the details on how you can book this experience (you need WeChat and to book at minimum 2 weeks in advance – it sells out quickly!)
Grand Canal (Jinghang Waterway)
Time Spent – 1 to 2 hours
Why You Should Visit – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s largest and oldest artificial waterway. It stretches over 1,700 kilometers and connects Beijing to Hangzhou, facilitating trade, cultural exchange, and economic growth for centuries. Hangzhou’s section of the canal was particularly important during the Sui and Tang dynasties as it served as a hub for transporting goods to northern China. Today, the canal is a living piece of history, lined with ancient docks, merchant houses, and waterside streets.
Quick Day Trips To Take From Hangzhou, China
If you have extra time in Hangzhou or want to explore beyond the city, there are a few perfect day trips that showcase the region’s culture, history, and natural beauty. Each destination is easily reachable by car, taxi, or even public transportation if needed.
Wuzhen Water Town (Venice of the East)
Distance By Car – 1.5 hours
Time Spent – 4 to 6 hours
Wuzhen is one of China’s most famous ancient water towns, often called the “Venice of the East” for its network of canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture. You can explore historic homes, local workshops, and museums, or take a boat ride to see the town from the canals. Wuzhen is particularly picturesque in the morning when the canals are calm, and the streets are less crowded. Don’t forget to try local specialties like Wuzhen rice cakes and fermented bean curd.
Xitang Water Town
Time Spent – 3 to 5 hours
Distance By Car – 1.5 to 2 hours
Xitang is another classic water town, slightly smaller and quieter than Wuzhen, but equally as charming. It’s known for its covered corridors (langqiao), ancient bridges, and serene canals, making it ideal for a more relaxed, slow-paced visit. Many film and TV shows have been shot here thanks to its well-preserved historic streets and authentic ambiance.
Moganshan
Time Spent – Half day to full day
Distance By Car – 1 to 1.5 hours
If you want a break from city life, Moganshan offers lush bamboo forests, hiking trails, and cooler mountain air. Historically, it was a summer retreat for Shanghai and Hangzhou elites during the 20th century, with many historic villas and colonial-era architecture still standing. You can hike a few trails, visit scenic viewpoints, and enjoy tea plantations in the hills for a nature-focused day trip. It’s best to visit in spring or fall for mild weather and vibrant scenery. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as trails can vary from easy to moderate.
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